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Laws in Singapore

Singapore is one of the top tourist destinations in Asia. It is the ‘shopper’s paradise’. Moreover, it is also the business hub of the continent. As a result, Singapore experiences thousands of footfalls round the year from different corners of the world. If you too are planning to visit Singapore in the near future, here is a brief summary of the laws of the country that citizens and tourists alike are required to abide by. Laws in Singapore are quite stringent.

To maintain law and order in the country, the Government of Singapore has introduced some strict regulations which are followed uniformly across the island nation. Breaking laws can lead to serious punishment, such as fine, incarceration and even expatriation. However, as a tourist you are less likely to commit a crime serious enough to get yourself into trouble. But here are few laws and their consequences that you may find useful to keep in mind. Check out the following rules:

Chewing gum ban: Chewing gums are prohibited in the country and chewing, selling and possessing gum are punishable offenses in Singapore. First time offender will be fined 500 Singapore Dollars or U.S.$ 375.

Littering: Singapore is an extremely clean city and laws are strictly imposed against offenders littering streets and public places. If you are found littering streets with even a small thing like a receipt, cigarette butt or chewing gum you will be fined S$ 300 or U.S.$ 225. The amount will be more for larger items.

Singapore also has a law in place which compels a three-time offender to clean roads on Sunday wearing a bib that says “I am a litterer”.

Spitting in public will attract a hefty fine of S$ 500 or U.S$ 375.

Ban on smoking: Entering the country with cigarette is a punishable offense in Singapore. Also, one can’t smoke in public places such as air-conditioned shopping malls and offices, theaters and cinemas, swimming pools, sports ground, parks, bus stations and other shelters. You can only smoke in permitted areas and restricted dining centers. You will be fined S$ 200 or U.S.$ 150 if you are caught smoking in Singapore. For carrying cigarettes, you will be charged with S$ 500 or U.S.$ 375 for each packet.

Jaywalking: Singapore has strict laws imposed against jaywalking. These laws will be applied for walking through the middle of a street, and crossing a pedestrian walkway during red signal. The police are very strict in following the rules and they will promptly hand out a fine of S$ 500 or US$ 375 to the lawbreaker.

Eating in public bus: If you are hungry, you may wait to get off the bus before eating. Otherwise, you will be fined S$ 500 or US$ 375.

Few more important laws to keep in mind

In addition to the above mentioned laws, here are few more rules to keep in mind:

Drug abuse and possession of illegal substances may attract jail terms and even death penalty.

Corporal punishment will be imposed for possessing drugs, rape, extortion, visa offenses, vandalism and the like.

Death penalty is awarded for murder, abduction and possessing illegal weapons.

Shoplifting is considered a serious offense and may lead to incarceration.

Every year, thousands of tourists visit Singapore. It is considered as one of the safest locations in the world for visitors. Serious crimes against tourists are rare. So, if you can keep the laws of Singapore in mind, you can certainly enjoy a magnificent time in this vivacious city.

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